Victoria Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith

Bands Preparing For FreeZA Regional Finals

Victor P Taffa

Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith today announced details of the regional finals for the annual FreeZA Battle of the Bands Competition.

Held in nine locations across Victoria from October to December, the finals form part of the Victorian Government’s $2.4 Million annual funding of the FreeZA program.

“The Victorian Coalition Government supports the FReeZA program and is committed to providing opportunities for young people aged 12-25 to develop skills and experience in the music industry.” Mr. Smith said.

“This year has seen unprecedented participation with 59 heat events held in the lead-up to the FReeZA Regional Finals. These will showcase the talents of 43 bands that have won local heats.”

The nine winners from each region will go on to play at the Grand Final of the Push Over Festival in March 2012.”

Each band that progresses to the Grand Final will compete for the major prize which includes studio time with engineers, 500 copies of the band’s recording, photo shoot, music equipment and media exposure.

“I congratulate and wish all the 43 bands competing in the finals the best of luck.” Mr. Smith said.

“I also congratulate and thank the many FReeZA committees across the state that have successfully hosted 59 band heats.”

Established in 1997, FReeZA supports young Victorians getting involved in the community by planning and running drug, smoke and alcohol-free music and cultural events. Every year FReeZA provides 140,000 young people with affordable and accessible music and cultural events in safe venues throughout the state.

“This year’s finalists will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of successful FReeZA performers such as Killing Heidi, The Vasco Era, Kisschasy, Michael Paynter and Neon Love – who went on to sign record deals.”

For further information visit www.freeza.vic.gov.au

All FReeZA events are fully supervised and 100 % drug, alcohol and smoke free.